By: Alice Dushimimana
Izere Mubyeyi Organization on Wednesday brought together parents, partners, and government leaders to showcase progress in inclusive education for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities during its Inclusive Impact Exchange and Partnership Engagement Forum 2025.
The forum brought together parents, partners, government officials, and advocates to reflect on progress made and explore ways to strengthen inclusive education and community-based support for children with disabilities.
One of the most inspiring voices at the event was Patience Irafasha, President of Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at Izere Mubyeyi. Sharing her personal journey, Patience challenged the belief that disability should lead to isolation.
“I am a child with both intellectual and physical disabilities, but I went to school, competed internationally, and won awards,” she told participants. She spoke proudly of representing Rwanda in international competitions, including a recent second-place win in Abu Dhabi. Patience encouraged parents and communities to believe in children with disabilities and give them opportunities to learn, grow, and develop their talents.”
Parents also shared powerful testimonies. Innocent Twahirwa, President of the Parents’ Committee at Izere Mubyeyi School, said the establishment of the school has transformed the lives of many families. He praised teachers for their dedication and noted that parents have seen remarkable improvements in their children’s confidence, learning abilities, and social skills.
Speaking at the forum, Emmanuel Ndayisaba, Executive Secretary of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities, commended Izere Mubyeyi for its long-term commitment and leadership. Reflecting on his first visit to the organization in 2007, he recalled how it began in a small church space with limited resources before growing into a well-structured institution aligned with the government’s inclusive education policy.
He pledged continued collaboration with Izere Mubyeyi and encouraged the organization to strengthen its resilience as it expands services while seeking additional partner support.
During the forum, Izere Mubyeyi’s leadership presented its five-year strategic plan, which focuses on expanding special and inclusive education, strengthening health, rehabilitation, and psychosocial services, and promoting economic empowerment for families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The plan also emphasizes evidence-based advocacy and organizational sustainability, with a goal of increasing enrolment by at least 50 percent by 2030.
Agnes Mukashyaka, a founding member of Izere Mubyeyi, said the organization was born from personal experience. As a parent of a child with an intellectual disability, she explained that Izere Mubyeyi was established in 2004 after parents realized their children had little access to education and basic services.
Today, Izere Mubyeyi supports 198 children, including 68 children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring they enjoy the same rights to education, health, and development as all other children.
